Being arrested for domestic violence can lead to significant life changes and legal penalties. An arrest can also inspire alleged victims to seek protective orders that are used to keep the alleged abuser away from them. This could mean spouses, partners and children are separated.
It may surprise some people to learn what constitutes domestic violence in Nevada. While many people think of domestic violence as physical abuse, there are several other types of domestic abuse that are recognized in this state.
Physical abuse
Physical abuse includes things like hitting, choking or pushing. This behavior may lead to bruising, cuts, broken bones or other injuries that require the need for medical care. In some cases, a victim’s medical care records can be included in the prosecution’s case as they try to prove that the defendant is guilty of domestic violence.
Beyond physical attacks
In Nevada, domestic violence isn’t just physical. The law here encompasses a wide range of actions as domestic violence. These include financial, psychological and emotional abuse. For example, threats of destructive acts that are meant to control a partner can be considered spousal abuse.
Elder abuse
Domestic violence can also occur when someone is caring for an elderly family member. In some cases, these behaviors occur because someone takes advantage of the vulnerability of an elderly individual.
Consequences of domestic violence accusations
Accusations of domestic violence can ripple through an accused person’s entire life. In some cases, protective orders are issued in these cases. They prohibit an alleged abuser from being able to contact alleged victims. Several kinds of protective orders may be issued in Nevada.
Being accused of domestic violence is a serious matter that requires urgent attention. In the event of a conviction, the accused may be subjected to a criminal history, incarceration, fines and other penalties handed down by the court. Once criminal charges are levied, the decision about how to proceed is up to the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. Seeking legal assistance for these cases is critical for defendants because of the far-reaching impacts they can have.